Description
This Braided Apple Puff Pastry is an easy and impressive dessert with flaky golden layers and a sweet apple-cinnamon filling. Perfect for holidays or a cozy treat with coffee!
Ingredients
Scale
For the filling:
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
For the pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp milk
For the topping (optional):
- 1 tbsp coarse sugar
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the apple filling: In a small pan over medium heat, melt butter and add diced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until apples are soft. Stir in vanilla and cornstarch (if using) to thicken the mixture. Let cool.
- Prepare the pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Place it on the baking sheet.
- Cut the pastry for braiding: Imagine the pastry is divided into three long sections. Cut 1-inch diagonal strips along both sides, leaving the center uncut for the filling.
- Fill and braid: Spoon the cooled apple mixture down the center strip. Fold alternating strips over the filling to create a braid.
- Egg wash: In a small bowl, whisk the egg with milk. Brush over the pastry. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if using.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
- Cool & serve: Let cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm!
Notes
- Apples: Use tart apples for a balanced flavor.
- Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. Reheat in the oven for crispiness.
- Glaze option: Drizzle with a simple icing (powdered sugar + milk) for extra sweetness.